2021 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a diverse range of trims, each with distinct styling elements that set them apart. The base LS and LT trims featured unique grille patterns, while the RST trim boasted a sporty blacked-out appearance with 22-inch wheels. The Z71 trim was designed for off-roading, incorporating a rugged front end, red tow hooks, and all-terrain tires. The Premier trim added chrome accents and polished wheels, while the High Country trim exuded luxury with a chrome bar grille and bright-finished 22-inch wheels. The Tahoe's design was characterized by its dominant grille and expressive taillights, with a more subtle overall styling compared to its predecessor. The interior focused on a larger infotainment screen and new electronic transmission controls, though the control layout was somewhat compromised. The Z71 trim we tested met quality expectations, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and hard plastics.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trims, all with standard all-wheel drive, and was praised for its luxurious feel at a mainstream price. The SX Limited trim, in particular, offered premium features like Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightsky Edition added a blacked-out look with unique wheels and grille. The Telluride's styling was widely appreciated, with a contemporary design and quality execution. The interior featured a solid and smooth transmission shifter, and the SX Limited trim offered a light grey leather option. The Telluride's design was both stylish and functional, with thoughtful storage solutions and a focus on passenger comfort.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered three engine options, starting with a 5.3-litre V8 delivering 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, standard in all but the High Country trim. The High Country featured a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel engine was also available, except for the Z71 trim, offering 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque with improved fuel efficiency. The Tahoe's 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with four-wheel drive optional on base trims and standard on others. The Z71 trim included off-road enhancements like hill descent control and all-terrain tires. The Tahoe's independent rear suspension improved ride quality, and optional Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride suspension further enhanced comfort. The Z71 impressed with its smooth ride and capable performance, while the 5.3-litre V8 provided ample power and a satisfying rumble. Fuel efficiency was estimated at 13.5 L/100 km in combined driving, with our test returning 14.3 L/100 km.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a single powertrain: a 3.8-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Kia's Drive Mode Select offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The Telluride's AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for maximum traction, and its 20.3 cm ground clearance aided in low-grip conditions. The Telluride excelled in both suburban and mountain driving, with a suspension that minimized head-toss and provided a firm yet compliant ride. The self-levelling rear suspension on higher trims ensured proper handling when loaded. While not a performance SUV, the Telluride handled curves with confidence, aided by Torque Vectoring Cornering Control. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with our test averaging 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe benefited from a new independent rear suspension, improving passenger comfort and cargo space. The test vehicle featured heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. The power sliding storage console was a standout feature, offering secure storage and flexibility. The second row offered a choice between a bench seat or captain's chairs, with the latter providing comfort and easy access to the third row. The third-row seat was significantly improved, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 722 litres behind the third row, 2,056 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 3,480 litres.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a heated steering wheel. The front seats offered heating and ventilation, and the leather upholstery featured a distinctive pattern. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and ventilated, with sunshades and separate climate controls for rear passengers. The third-row seat was accessible via a button that tilted and slid the second-row seat, and robust grab handles aided exit. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions, including smartphone holders and USB ports. The smart hands-free power liftgate revealed 601 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,304 litres with the third row folded and a maximum of 2,455 litres.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe featured a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with enhanced computing power and over-the-air updates. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Navigation and Bose audio systems were available upgrades. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though some controls were hard to access. The voice-recognition system was impressive, and Bluetooth pairing was quick. The test vehicle included a Rear Seat Media system, though we couldn't fully test its capabilities. A head-up display was available but not included in our test vehicle.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was intuitive, with menu shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. The voice-recognition system was adequate, and the Harman Kardon audio system added a touch of luxury. The Limited trims included a head-up display with comprehensive information. The Telluride's technology offerings were well-rounded, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe included standard safety features like Teen Driver, rear-seat reminder, forward collision alert, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered additional features like lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Tahoe's safety systems worked as expected, though the pedestrian alert could be distracting. A surround-view camera was recommended for easier maneuvering. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2021 Kia Telluride boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision avoidance. Additional systems included adaptive cruise control, Rear Occupant Alert, and Safe Exit Assist. The SX trim offered front parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star rating from the NHTSA, with a minor blemish in frontal-impact results.